Shakespeare, William: 1564-1616

Othello, 1622 - Summary

  • Act I
    The play begins in Venice, with Iago, a military officer, and Roderigo, a wealthy Venetian, discussing their mutual hatred for Othello, a Moorish general in the Venetian army. Iago is angry because Othello has promoted Cassio over him. Together, they wake Brabantio, a senator and Desdemona's father, to inform him of Desdemona's secret marriage to Othello. Brabantio, incensed, accuses Othello of witchcraft, but the Duke of Venice supports Othello when Desdemona testifies that she married Othello out of love.

    Act II
    The action shifts to Cyprus, where Othello is sent to defend against a Turkish invasion. The Turkish fleet is destroyed in a storm, and the conflict shifts to the personal realm. Iago begins to weave his web of deceit, manipulating Roderigo to pursue Desdemona and planting seeds of doubt in Othello's mind about Desdemona's fidelity. Iago suggests that Desdemona is having an affair with Cassio.

    Act III
    Iago's manipulations intensify. He stages situations to make Othello suspicious, such as Cassio speaking with Desdemona, and uses Desdemona’s handkerchief, which Iago's wife Emilia has stolen, to further convince Othello of the affair. Othello's jealousy grows, and he vows to take revenge on both Cassio and Desdemona.

    Act IV
    Othello confronts Desdemona, accusing her of infidelity. Despite her protests of innocence, Othello's jealousy consumes him. Iago continues to manipulate those around him, leading to Cassio's wounding by Roderigo. Desdemona remains confused and distressed by Othello's behavior.

    Act V
    In the final act, Iago’s treachery is revealed. Othello, overcome with jealousy, smothers Desdemona in their bed. Emilia exposes Iago's deceit, and Iago kills her. Realizing the gravity of his mistake, Othello takes his own life. Iago is arrested, and the tragic cycle of jealousy and betrayal ends.

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